Obituary of Robert Burns Carruthers

Robert Burns “Bob” Carruthers, age 73 of Durham, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family on March 14th, in the Aberdeen Hospital Palliative Care Unit, New Glasgow. Born in Tatamagouche on August 19th, 1949, he was the son of the late Burns and Edith (Joudrey) Carruthers. Bob (a.k.a.) “Tire Man” as he was affectionately known in the industry where he spent his entire career, worked the last 40+ years at Eastern Tire in New Glasgow. Bob truly enjoyed his work as a traveling tire salesman, especially the time he spent on the road interacting with his valued customers (friends) of many years, and more recently the time he was able to spend travelling with his younger brother Ron. Bob’s career was made extra special when it led him to finding the love of his life and partner for many years Sharon. Bob had many passions in life and was a man who spent his time doing what he wanted to do and spending time with those he loved. A family man first, Bob or “grampie Bob or uncle Bob” was always up for anything that allowed his family, friends, and fur kids to come together, and usually this included a great meal (likely at home or the camp), or sometimes even just a coffee (at the Mill)! Bob also loved to travel and enjoyed seeing the world by car, motorcycle, or boat. Bob was fortunate in life to see and experience many fascinating places including his favorite destinations of Newfoundland and Florida, as well as an eventual trip to England. In more recent years, his passion for travel saw he and Sharon and their dog Jesse spend their time in PEI camping with the grandkids, and bonding with his PEI friends - those that would become some of his closest friends. If not travelling, Bob would spend time puttering in his wood shop. Many family members have been fortunate to be gifted his creations, with several proudly displaying in their homes his hand made rocking horses! He was a mentor, an animal lover, an avid collector (a gun enthusiast his entire life), and overall, a kind and generous man who loved his life, family, and friends. Bob will be greatly missed. Bob is survived by his partner, Sharon (Layte); siblings, Diane (David) Dow, Ron (Judy) Carruthers, Janet (Carl) Mattattall, Neil Carruthers (Jill Smith); children, Troy Carruthers (Heather Greene), Brad Carruthers, Gina Carruthers (Justin Roddick); Stepchildren, Tammy Rent-Pembleton (Stephen Pembleton), Michelle (Neale) Quan; Grandchildren, Cole (Kaylee), Hannah, Madison, Lauren, Emily, Torin, Ciarra; many beloved aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins; Fur Kid, Jesse James. He was predeceased by his parents Burns and Edith Carruthers, and his brother Lee Carruthers. Cremation to take place. A private memorial service for family and friends will be held at a later date. Donations may be made in his memory to the Pictou County SPCA. Special thanks to Gerald and Marg Holmes, the Aberdeen Hospital Palliative Care team, Dr Jeans, Dr Manuel, the VON, and especially Dr. Gerry Farrell.